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  THIS IS MY BELOVED, AND THIS IS MY FRIEND
  by A.B. Simpson
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Summary: God is our personal, loving friend who is always ready to aid
us in times of need.

Topics: "Intimacy With God", "Friendship with God"
Scripture References: Psalm 25:14, Proverbs 18:24, Isaiah 41:8, Matthew 7:7, Luke 11:5, John 15:15, Philippians 4:6, James 2:23

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DESCRIPTION
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A.B. Simpson emphasizes the profound significance of God as our friend,
inviting us to reflect on the deep bonds of friendship we have
experienced in our lives. He encourages us to recognize that God is not
only a friend but infinitely more, being personally invested in our
lives and offering unwavering support and love. Simpson highlights the
importance of prayer as a means to connect with our heavenly Friend, who
is always ready to assist us in our times of need. By recalling the acts
of love from our earthly friends, we can better appreciate the depth of
God's friendship and His promises to us. Ultimately, God desires an
intimate fellowship with each of us, making Him our most trusted
companion.

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CONTENT
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God is our friend. Which of you shall have a friend, . . . at midnight?
asked Jesus (Luke 11:5). This concept of God as our friend has deep
significance for each one of us. Who has not had a friend, who in some
respects was more of a friend than anyone in the family? Reflect upon
that friendship. Recall each act of love. Think of all you could trust
that friend to do for you and all the ways in which he or she stood by
you. Then as you concentrate the whole weight of recollection and
affection, put God in that place of confidence and realize He is all
that friend has been and infinitely more. Our Friend!

The one who is personally interested in us, who has set His heart upon
us, who has come near to us in the tender and delicate intimacy of
unspeakable fellowship.

He has given us invaluable pledges and promises, He has done very much
for us, He is ever ready to go to any trouble or expense to aid us. To
Him we come in prayer-our heavenly Friend.

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Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/ab-simpson/this-is-my-beloved-and-this-is-my-friend/
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